Adonis

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Family: Ranunculaceae  Potentially TOXIC
Annual.  Native to Europe and Asia.  Grown for its bright red flowers which provide a handsome ground cover and edging.  The plant is toxic if taken in large doses, as it contains cardiac glycosides.  It was used historically as a cardiac stimulant, like a mild Digitalis. The antidote to over-dose of Adonis would be Aconite.  Cultivation:  Extra care.  Like all members of the Ranunculaceae, Adonis will benefit from a period of warm conditioning followed by a very cold period, followed by germination in the spring (see Aconite, Monkshood).     Flowers to 1 foot.